Mocha mousse magic
As we inch closer to 2025, the much-awaited announcement by the Pantone Colour Institute is out; ‘Mocha Mousse’ (Pantone 17-1230) is the colour of 2025. This is the first time in the initiative’s 25-year-old history that a shade of brown has been chosen as the colour of the year. Mocha mousse, according to Pantone is a ‘warming, brown hue imbued with richness’.
A colour that immediately conjures images of a comforting cup of coffee or hot chocolate, it’s an uplifting shade that connotes quiet luxury. “This neutral hue with its potential for understated simplicity offers endless creative possibilities,” says Vineeta Singhania-Sharma, Founder Partner and Principal Architect, at Confluence.
Harmonious and Earthy Appeal
Mocha mousse creates a grounded ambience while offering flexibility in styling for different spaces. “A neutral palette in home interiors brings endless possibilities. It exudes a sense of harmony and it adds sophistication with soft luxury and highlights simplicity without pretence,” say Rahul Mistri and Anju Mukhi Mistri, Founders and Principal Designers, Open Atelier Mumbai.
Whether used on walls, fabrics, or upholstery this hue effortlessly blends with a plethora of colour schemes, décor sensibilities and an array of tactile textures. “Use mocha mousse as a backdrop for an accent wall in your living room to display art or as the primary paint colour with lighter trims for contrast.
The mocha tint works wonders on upholstered headboards, accent pillows and textured throws,” says Neha Garg, Founder and Principal Designer, Studio Jane Designs. The colour is a popular pick for kitchen cabinetry as it lends an earthy element and is also easy to maintain. For a spa-like ambience in the bathroom, combine mocha mousse walls with stone, ceramic or even brass finishes.
For your home workspace, mocha mousse on a feature wall creates a focused yet calming space; pair it with furniture in contrasting shades. “Depending on the lighting system, mocha mousse can uniquely adapt to different moods and styles.
In spaces that have ample natural light, it can help enhance the richness, make the space more inviting and softer. Mocha mousse embodies the philosophy of finding beauty in imperfections and celebrating nature, making it the perfect choice for interior spaces,” add Rahul Mistri and Anju Mukhi Mistri.
Colour Combinations and Styling Cues
Its neutral base makes mocha mousse incredibly flexible and it blends seamlessly with other organic tones like terracotta, olive green, sage and creamy whites. It also offers a striking contrast to vibrant accents such as rich blue or millennial pink.
“For a feel of relaxed elegance, it is best paired with muted colours like cannoli cream, cream tan and chanterelle. To lighten up the spaces, it can be complemented with tones like tendril, viola and willow,” adds Singhania-Sharma. Weaving it with cool greys is sure to give the space a chic vibe by adding a contemporary edge without overpowering the overall depth of the space. Pairing it with overly bright colours is a no-no as it detracts from its grounding nature.
“The colour adds a classy appeal when incorporated with metallic accents such as gold or bronze. Mocha mousse also pairs beautifully with various textures such as luxurious velvet, leather, softer fabrics and even natural stones,” add Rahul Mistri and Anju Mukhi Mistri. Pairing it with textures like linen, wool, or jute enhances its organic appeal.
Mocha mousse works well in small spaces too but remember to use it judiciously. “Balance it with lighter hues for contrast. In furniture, opt for accent chairs or pouffes upholstered in this shade and pair it with accessories like carpets, rugs, vases, or art for a subtle yet impactful look. Avoid overuse in dimly lit settings, as it may feel excessively heavy,” adds Garg. The world is your oyster.
